Prospective homebuyers are getting a little more hopeful that mortgage rates will come down, and a greater share is feeling confident that it’s a good time to buy a home, according to the Fannie Mae Home Purchase Sentiment Index, which has recovered slightly from its all-time low in October. The data comes from a survey of about 1,000 homeowners and renters who were asked more than 100 questions about their attitudes toward home buying and the economy. 

The Fed has indicated that slower rate hikes are on the way and may even cease once rates reach just over 5% since December data shows inflation is moderating. Meanwhile, many markets are already shifting into the hands of the buyer, with sellers offering more concessions, and the Case-Shiller Index shows home prices declining month-over-month, though they’re still elevated compared to a year ago. More prospective homebuyers are betting that the affordability crunch will ease, likely as a result of these changes. But if their optimism translates to increased demand, that could cause prices to rise again. 

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